1 comments about 200 Ways to Love the Body You Have.

1. Women have always had a peculiar relationship with their bodies. Peculiar in the sense they are taught from an early age to obsess about it. From early pintails and bobby socks to low-rise jeans and demi bras. Not to mention the money put in to soften, colour, and pluck every inch of our body if need be. No matter how much is done the satisfaction is short lived. It isn't long until the next thing needs to be fixed; like the diet that will finally give the hour glass figure we are all destined to have. Not. Is any woman truly at peace with every inch of her body?
   
   Hutchinson spent 17 years teaching workshops on body image. This little handbook is one of the babies birthed from her work. As the name suggests, she provides 200 ways to love the body you have. These "tools" arouse the senses of sight, hearing, touch, taste and scent. Not only are you given a mental workout you're required to involve yourself physically with breathing exercises, body movements, mediation, lots of visualizations and a whole lot of journaling
   
   You'll learn how your inner critic works and to recognize how your body responds to your emotions. If you're familiar with yoga you might be familiar with some of the meditations; like grounding yourself by using tree imagery. Although the tools sometimes seem repetitive, they may have to be to get you to open to the ideas.
   
   A really good one is number eleven, "Stop Comparing". Basically Hutchinson recommends we stop checking out what others have physically that we don't have, i.e. perky breasts, thin thighs; and look for opportunities to find likenesses with others.
   
   154, titled Hungry for What, implies changing what we put in our mouths is as easy as making a list of alternative actions. If it were that easy wouldn't there be less obese people? One or two border on corny but overall an interesting, quick and easy workbook.
   
   Another quip I have was the constant directions to post results in a prominent location as a reminder. With this repeated recommendation there'd be no place for anything else, like say, family pictures.
   
   This book is definitely for someone who can follow through every morning by getting up 15 minutes earlier, opening the book up anywhere and picking a tool at random. Tip: Leave a tiny post-it on the page so the next time you open the book there you know you've done it. Keep doing this until all the pages have a post-it. Then start again but this time removing the post-it for each one you work through.
   
   Even though there isn't a lot of text this is not necessarily an easy read. If you choose to work through the activities it forces you to come to terms with your feelings. It's a good place to start if you want to work through some body issues and as Hutchinson says, "make a home in your body." Written by M. E. Wood.

5 comments about The Power of Inner Guidance: Seven Steps to Tune In and Turn On.

1. If you're looking for a book on how to make good rational decisions about your life, this is an excellent choice. By using a parable and several real life examples, Dr. Garcy makes her points easy to understand and very interesting to read. I enjoyed this book from cover to cover and believe I can put this 7 step process into action for myself. I just ordered a couple more copies for gifts.



2. I've had different pieces of the puzzle but not the big picture to look at. This book has given me a much clearer picture on how the puzzle pieces fits together.



3. I found this book to be a simple, albeit a great read. Dr. Garcy did a phenomenal job of showing the reader how to implement the fundamental strategies of creating healthy changes in the lives of those that are searching for satisfaction of self and peace of mind. Moreover, these skills are basic! They are ones that nearly everyone has, yet do not necessarily utilize - - as she states early on in her book, "it is a true self-help book, because it will give you the skills you need to access that which you already possess" (Garcy, p. 21). This is a book anyone and everyone could use to gain (or maintain) self-awareness and a purposeful focus!



4. This bood is a quick read with a powerful message. It will give you a new perspective on how to handle old problems. Chapter 4 gives it to you straight, then allows you to decide how to tackle the issues in your life. Are you ready to make postive changes?!



5. The Power of Inner Guidance: Seven Steps to Tune In and Turn On
   
   Dr. Pam Garcy honored me with a preview copy of her book, The Power of Inner Guidance, and I followed her seven steps to the letter. The results are that it's so very easy now to make decisions which come from a place of centeredness and peace, and trust myself and choices in a whole new way. Her guide allowed me to be a better person in every way.
   
   Pam has a remarkable understanding of what we all go through in our daily lives - we "should" ourselves to the point that it's easy to lose our true natures and question who we are. We have so many responsibilities that pull us in many directions at once, one day we wake up and notice we feel "lost" in the process.
   
   This book is such a practical read and inspiration, I know you'll find just what you're looking for to help your make your choices with wisdom, peace and a feeling of true "inner guidance"!
   
   I'm getting copies to send to friends who are going through transitions in their lives while questioning every decision they make. With this book, I know you can stop saying, I "should" have done this, or I "should" do this, and know precisely how to follow your own inner guidance.
   
   Thank you Pam - you and your book are a guide to right now, easy to implement steps, that are truly life-changing in the most positive way. You've given us a blueprint to regaining our "true north self".
   
   With many thanks and blessings,
   Pat Wyman

5 comments about Affirmations for Self-Healing, 3rd Edition.

1. The affirmations in this book have a power to transform that belies their simplicity. There are 52 topics/qualities- each one has a short description, an affirmation, and a prayer. Rather than use a new one each week, I find it more helpful to find a quality that I need to work on, and then use the affirmation for a few weeks.

   This is one that I'm using now, on energy:

   "Within me lies the energy to accomplish all that I will to do. Behind my every act is God's infinite power."

   Try repeating it silently throughout the day for a week or so. Then decide for yourself if this book is for you.




2. A little jewel of a book with a user friendly format that allows it to be used as a real handbook. It's set up with an inspiring and helpful chapter on how to use affirmations in the most effective way, then it goes on to present fifty-two different qualities with corresponding affirmations. Mr. Walters, in his descriptions of the qualities, provides the reader with deep insights which aid in focusing the affirmations with the appropriate awareness and intent.

   I've personally gained a lot from using quite a few of these affirmations and I've also found them very beneficial in working with others in my position as a counselor.

   A very practical book for healing!




3. The learned writer from Portland, Oregon seems to have missed out in his school lessons what a book review should consist of. He has made his dislike of the author quite clear, but other than his childish attack on the editing I found nothing to give me any inkling what the book can or cannot give me. Luckily I had already read the book, so I can give my own review. The book is a fine example of affirmations, how and when to use them, with an added point of using prayer along with them. There are 52 affirmations and prayers so you can use one a week for a year. I found many of these affirmations to have a strong effect in my life. Don't let the small minority of Donald Walters hate mongers turn you away from a wonderful author. Here is an affirmation that our friend in Oregon could use. "The whole world is my home and the human race, my family. With God's kindness I embrace all men.

   P.S. I really think the review should stick to just that, and not be used to further the anger of a few. This seems to fall under the atacking the author catagory.




4. An affirmation is a statement of truth which one aspires to absorb into his life. It has been said that we are what we eat. It would be truer to say, "We are what we think." ~J. Donald Walters
   
   Affirmations can heal your mind and body. Since 1948, J. Donald Walters has been studying and practicing the ancient science of concentration and meditation known as Raja Yoga. You do not have to actually practice Yoga in order to enjoy or benefit from his knowledge. You may enjoy the affirmation and not say the prayers (To Cosmic Energy, God, Divine Mother, Spirit, Lord, Heavenly Father) or just enjoy reading the passage on the left explaining the fifty-two basic subjects. You can take what you need from this book and enhance your life. You could adapt the prayers to your own religious beliefs.
   
   Within this tiny book you will find a passage, an affirmation and a prayer for: Success, Energy, Immortality, Humility, Sharing, Consideration for Others, Inspiration, Joy, Discrimination, Humor, Truthfulness, Happiness, Forgiveness, Courage, Non-attachment, Self-confidence, Acceptance, Positive Thinking, Love, Service, Work, Contentment, Introspection, Calmness, Wisdom, Concentration, Security, Self-control, Will Power, Generosity, Awareness, Moral Vigor, Willingness, Patience, Renunciation, Enthusiasm, Devotion, Openness, Even-Mindedness, Self-expansion, Power, Income, Good Health, Peace of Mind, Perseverance, Practicality, Gratitude, Kindness, Alertness, Non-injury, God-Remembrance, High-Mindedness.
   
   I especially enjoyed reading the topic of "Acceptance." Here we learn that this is one of the most difficult lessons in life and the author explains how we waste so much energy wishing our lives were different. He explains how we can accept what comes into our lives as coming from God.
   
   The Affirmation: "I accept with calm impartiality whatever comes my way. Free in my heart, I am not conditioned by any outward circumstance."
   
   I also enjoyed reading the section on "Immortality" and thinking of myself as a "child of eternity." When you think of death as being a change and not an "end" it does not seem as frightening unless you are still wondering where your soul will end up.
   
   The section on "Joy" and "Happiness" is enlightening and very true.
   
   J. Donald Walters believes in affirmations which are repeated with deep concentration. The words are then carried into the subconscious and can change us on levels of the mind in which we have little conscious control.
   
   To heal yourself, you may have to set your inner conflicts in order and start to think differently about your life.
   
   I have also enjoyed reading: "Secrets of Emotional Healing" by the same author.
   
   "Affirmations for Self-Healing" is a book to keep on your bedside table to read in quiet moments of reflection perhaps while listening to "Relax: Meditations for Flute and Cello" composed by Donald Walters.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review



5. If you are interested in yoga, this is a must have! Realize yoga is NOT just exercise!

No comments about Al B.'s World: Living Life To Its Fullest.

5 comments about The Confident Woman: How to Take Charge and Recharge Your Life.

1. I don't know why other reviewers gave this author five stars. This book is not for working women or married women with no kids,but just for moms. But I don't think this book has a positive influence on readers. This book is indeed prejudiced and disgusting. The author strived for finding out all bad things men did toward women from history of many countries. She says something like "Don't feel victimized." But she described her experiences and women's history as victimized ! She also speaks down on readers and I felt as if she repeated to me,"You are not intelligent.","I'm intelligent and I'm very confident of myself". Also,she seems to have a racial prejudice..I, as an Asian woman,felt so insulted and angry. By this book,my depression became worse ! I'll never buy this author's book !

   If you really want to be confident of yourself,read Marilyn Sorensen Ph.D's "Breaking the Chain of Low Self-Esteem". This book changed my life and saved my life.




2. After going throug a particulary rough patch, I found myself rather depressed and my confidence was at an all time low. I bought this book on the recommendation of a friend, and am really glad I did!

   The author lists several reasons that women, as a group, may lack confidence, even when their lives have been fairly productive, and I found that interesting, but in my opinion, the best part of the book was the self rating quiz. This confirmed my feeling that I was in a real slump.

   The next part of the book had really excellent exercises that helped me clarify my values, wants and desires. The aim was to help me get back in touch with who I really am, and who I want to become. what I like and dislike, what I want to "be, do and have" and generally just get back in touch with what was and wasn't important in my life.

   The next section of the book dealt with practical ways to act on what I'd learned in the values clarification exercises, and how to "get it in gear" and take an active role in mazimizing things that made me happy, and minimizing those that left me feeling like a used dishrag.

   I have to tell you that it perked me right back up in the first week! I'm now putting those positive things back into my life, slowly but consistantly, and feel far more hopeful and focused than I did before the book arrived.

   This book did a lot to boost my morale, and level of confidence, and that was just exactly what I seemed to need right now.

   I hope other readers will find it as benifical as I have.




3. I happened to come across this book at our local library, and had just brushed through a few pages with the aim of getting some tips for increasing my confidence, which I have always worked on. Now, the moment I started reading this book, there was no looking back. Now, I have finished reading, and am renewing this book, only because I want to take down the notes and keep with me as an asset. Marjorie has wonderfully explained the ways how a woman can become CONFIDENT in her life, at home and at work. I probably am running short of the exact words to explain the worth of this, I would say, it's a must read for anyone who wants to gain her confidence.
   
   Now, I was sorry to read the review of an Asian reader who posted a poor review on November 12, 2001. I am also an Asian now living in the US, a newly married woman, taking a break temporarily from my work life. Still, I have been able to relate most of the topics with myself. There are probably a few cultural differences from Asia, but when I read some topics related to them, I just read through them, just learning a few insights into the Western culture. Besides, Marjorie has clearly mentioned in her initial chapter that she has written this mainly from the Western perspective on the meaning of 'Soul' etc. Also, I feel Marjorie has well put the words needed to raise the confidence levels of women who have not really grown to their potentials. In fact, 'Let's get practical' chapter, I feel, can even be ready by men, ignoring the specific topics mentioned only for women!
   
   I would definitely recommend this book if you want to raise your confidence levels



4. This is quite an excellent compilation of information, support, and permission to help you on your journey to becoming the woman you want to be.
   Shaevitz covers every area of life with plenty of suggestions, so this is not just a theoretical book, but a very pragmatic one.
   Her style is clear and easy to read.
   As a self-help reference guide it might be something you come back to when you have lost your way. A spark to ignite you toward authenticity, wholeness, and peace.



5. Great revelation came to me out of this book!! I am undergoing transformation and I am amazed at the insight and clarity this book brings! I have recommended this book to several of my friends and have even purchased this book for family and friends!! I have never read a book that brought so much healing into my life and not only healing but as it has transformed me I am seeing a transformation in my family!! Thanks you so much for sharing your life story!! Thru your book, I am seeing my life story in the pages I have read!! I am expecting great things to come out of the insight I am receiving!! Thanks!

No comments about Piensa Pensamientos Positivos Cada Dia / Think Positive Thoughts Each Day.

1 comments about Creating Confidence: The Secrets of Self-Esteem.

1. I found this book to be pretty slow at first and was not getting much out of it, until I got about half way through. It has some very powerful excercises later on, and the effects that it has had for me in just a few short weeks has been fantastic. It has really helped me to reorient my life at a time when I really needed it. It's a great book, and I highly recommend it. Anyone can benefit from the excercises and improve his/her self-esteem.

No comments about The Pleasers: Women Who Can't Say No-And the Men Who Control Them.

1 comments about Your Ultimate Personality Quiz: 500 Fun and Fascinating Questions-All About You! (Do You Know?).

1. I have many personality quiz books, so I guess at some point, Im bound to run into repitition. This one seems to have the same quizez that are included in the other books. If you dont have all the other books already, then you'll love this one.

3 comments about Master Your Fears: How to Triumph over Your Worries and Get on with Your Life.

1. Dr. Sapadin's book is a very practical guide to taming the fears which hinder our lives each and every day. Because we live in a world where violent images and frightening statistics inform our daily lives, it is often hard to wake up and face the world without the burden of fear. Dr. Sapadin helps her readers navigate this powerful and often unpredictable emotion, dealing with the smallest worries to the most paralyzing anxieties. She writes in a friendly and approachable style, and she often draws on personal experience. I love the stories she shares about her family; they are funny, poignant, and wonderful teaching tools, especially for a layman like myself. I highly recommend this book!



2. It's been almost three years since September 11, 2001, and an already frightening world has become even scarier. Was, threat, politics, economic change, disease ?? what NEXT will there be to fear? In light of all this, I wonder why LInda Sapadin's excellent and sensible "Master Your Fears : How to Triumph Over Your Worries and Get On with Your Life" has not received more attention.
   Her step-by-step prescriptions for living in these scary times, tailored to individual personality types, seem to me to be just what we need. Rather than exacerbate fear by enumerating what there is to be afraid of, Dr. Sapadin seems to ratify FDR's famous aphorism, "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." And she tells us how to "de-scare-ify" life ?? IF we follow through on her programs.
   I know it helped me. And I believe it will help others. Don't be afraid. Read it!



3. I enjoyed reading Dr. Sapadin's book and think it would be very helpful, practical, and soothing for anyone suffering with anxiety and fears. Her language is simple and not jargony. Her exercises are easy to follow and learn from. She even has a questionairre to help you determine which kind of fearful person you are. Then throughout the book, she will gear various suggestions toward specific types. For example, if you are fearful mostly because of shyness, try this one... or, if mostly controlling, compliant, etc.. try this one. I work with people who struggle with anxiety and fear. I would recommend her book as a helpful adjunct. Kate Boswell MFT